The growing child has many social expectations in the world in which we live. It can be a challenging and confusing time for young children and their families, as well as the professionals that work with them. After exploring the multiple resources in Unit 8, consider the following case scenario and answer the questions for this week's Discussion.
Antonio is a five year old boy whose parents have recently divorced. He is the youngest of four boys in the family and attends the local Head Start. The early childhood professionals are concerned because Antonio has recently had some social difficulties with peers. For example, he refuses to participate in group games, plays alone and resists bids for cooperative play. His mother reports that he appears to get angry more easily since the divorce and has a hard time calming himself down, which the early childhood professionals have also observed.
Identify the important milestones children ages two through six years learn about their feelings and relationships with the people in their lives.
With this in mind, how can you as an early childhood provider set up the environment to meet Antonio's needs at this time?
Explain how you would include peers in this process.
Describe ideas you can share with Antonio's mother for the home environment. Please be sure to discuss how rules, routines, and guidance strategies can set the stage for success for young children.